To most, Zermatt means one thing: the Matterhorn. This ultimate Swiss icon looms over Zermatt, first drawing visitors in the 1860s. Visit the Alpine Museum to learn about early attempts to reach the summit. Zermatt itself is a lovely car-free village with old-fashioned brown chalets and winding alleys. Electric vehicles and horse-drawn cabs provide transportation. A year-round destination, Zermatt is surrounded by 36 mountains, popular for their superb skiing (often through early summer) and hiking.